Betwa is a north Indian River and a tributary of the Yamuna. The river originates in the Vindhya Range just north of Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh. In Sanskrit `Betwa` is called `Vetravati` which means containing reeds.

The river flows in the north-east direction of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh and then joins the Yamuna River just east of Hamirpur town in Uttar Pradesh. The total length of the river from its origin to its confluence with Yamuna is 590 km (370 mi), out of which 232 km (144 mi) lies in Madhya Pradesh and the balance of 358 km (222 mi) in Uttar Pradesh. Half of the river that is not traversable runs over the Malwa Plateau before breaking into the upland of Bundelkhand. The main tributaries of the Betwa River are Jamni and Dhasan Rivers. There are two dams constructed across the river at Dukwan and Deogarh.

History of Betwa River
The Betwa River is mentioned in the epic Mahabharata along with the Charmanwati River, which is now called the Chambal River. Both are tributaries of Yamuna. Vetravati was also known as Shuktimati. The capital of Chedi Kingdom was on the banks of this river.

Future Projects on Betwa River
The Betwa River is being linked with the Ken River as a part of the river linking project in Madhya Pradesh. Another noteworthy project on the Betwa River is the construction of the Matatila Dam, an undertaking project between the states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The region is important for migratory water birds.

Orchha - Historical Town near Betwa River
The historical little town of Orchha is famous for its architectural glory and graceful Betwa River. The town is landlocked and primarily fed by the Betwa River. River Betwa is an integral part of the medieval city of Orchha. This river carries a lot of emotions and sentiments of the dwellers of the place. What Brahmaputra River is to Assam, River Betwa is just the same for the people of Orchha.

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary lies within the area through which Betwa River flows. It"s one of the most scenic places in Madhya Pradesh. Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to few of the most endangered species in the world. Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary lies within the area through which Betwa River flows. It is one of the most scenic places in Madhya Pradesh. The river water of Betwa forms one of the main sources of water for the wildlife living within. Unlike other vast wildlife sanctuaries, Orchha Wild life Sanctuary is comparatively smaller, around 25 kms long and 15 kms wide. It covers an area of around 46 sqkm. Yet the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary gains importance due to few factors, which includes rich wildlife, Betwa River and some dense plantations.